Seventh heaven for Federer

Roger Federer retained his title at Halle to win the event for a seventh time after he defeated Alejandro Falla in two tiebreaks.

The record 17-time grand slam champion was playing in his ninth final at Halle and extended his 100% record against Falla, winning 7-6(2) 7-6(3) to beat his opponent for the seventh time in seven matches.

Federer failed to clinch the first set when serving at 5-3 having broken Falla in the previous game. Falla hit back to force a tiebreak, but lost five successive points from 2-2 as Federer took the opening set.

In the second set, Federer was unable to consolidate an early break of serve as Falla made it 1-1. With neither player being broken after the second game, another tiebreak was required to separate the pair, where it was Federer who won it to triumph after racing into a 3-0 advantage.

"I really enjoy winning titles," Federer told the ATP Tour website. "It is what I play for, to play and receive a standing ovation at the end.

"I am very pleased with my performance. I work hard and travel the tour to win these titles and not lose in the quarters or semi-finals. With all the success I have had in the past, I need to aim for titles. I think I deserved the title this week."

Federer failed to complete the sweep later on with victory in the doubles as he and partner Marco Chiudinelli went down to Andre Begemann and Julian Knowle 6-1 5-7 10-12.